Pedaling with Purpose: Jerry’s Gift to His Community
In February 2025, Dr. Gerard “Jerry” Jacobs joined Benedictine Living Community–Dickinson for a short-term rehabilitation stay following a hospitalization. After experiencing a neurological event, Jerry faced challenges with mobility, speech, and daily living tasks.
Determined to regain his strength, Jerry committed himself to therapy each day. He especially enjoyed using the OmniCycle—an adaptive exercise bike designed to support both upper and lower body movement. With its smart motor-assist technology, the machine adjusts resistance automatically, helping individuals with limited strength or mobility continue progressing safely.
Over time, what began as a short-term stay became something more. Jerry became part of the Benedictine family.
As he continued his therapy, Jerry noticed the OmniCycle was in high demand. Many residents wanted to use it, but access was limited. Wanting to help, he asked his care team a simple but powerful question: “How can I help get us a second bike, so more people can use it?”
Working alongside the therapy team and Development Director, Jerry made a generous decision—to fund a new and enhanced version of the equipment: the OmniTour by ACP (Accelerated Care Plus).
The OmniTour takes rehabilitation to an entirely new level by combining physical exercise with immersive virtual experiences. Residents can “travel” while they exercise—cycling through more than 100 destinations, from scenic mountain trails to historic city streets. The system also offers memory-based programs and group therapy options that encourage socialization, cognitive engagement, and connection.
For Jerry, the impact is deeply personal.
“I’ve been blessed, and I have the ability to share that blessing,” he said. “Money doesn’t do much good sitting in a bank account—it needs to do something, to work.”
That belief is now creating opportunities for others.
“The people at Benedictine do a lot for me, and it feels good to give back,” Jerry shared. “Now I can visit places all over the world while I exercise.”
When asked about his favorite destination, Jerry smiles. “It’s hard to pick just one—but probably walking through the Rockies. It keeps us interested. It’s impressive technology—the most advanced screens I’ve ever seen.”
While virtual travel may be new to Jerry, generosity and service are not.
Dr. Jacobs holds a PhD in psychology, with dual degrees in clinical and community psychology. After building a successful private practice, he took his work beyond the office—traveling to support individuals and communities recovering from traumatic events. Using his own resources, Jerry served on the frontlines, helping survivors of the Oklahoma City bombing, 9/11, and multiple hurricanes.
Through his continued generosity, Jerry is ensuring that residents have access to engaging, meaningful therapy experiences. He is not only enhancing his own quality of life—he is uplifting an entire community.
At Benedictine, stories like Jerry’s remind us that healing doesn’t just happen through care—it happens through connection, purpose, and the desire to make a difference.
